Hello people I promised Paul007 that I would put up a review of the above after attending the dealer launch of the new MINI triples today. I was actually very impressed but am going to take the liberty of linking you to my new blog where I have written down my impressions and put a few photos up. I am not a motoring journo but I like writing and I hope to put other car stuff on my blog as I learn how to create it and hone it so keep your eyes peeled and hope you like the test notes.

 

http://bodslife.wordpress.com/2014/03/15/2014-mini-cooper-and-mini-cooper-d-three-cylinder-test/

Interesting reviews there Matt. I'd not even thought about the new Mini as a replacement till I saw it in Geneva on Monday and didn't know about the engines.

Hi Chris: yea I would definately consider one as a replacement. Both engines are superb: very smooth and gutsy.

Nice review and interesting reading

But the 'elephant in the room' ....25mpg?

That's so far off the manafactures claim I find that unacceptable by Mini and unlikely to tempt me into the showroom I'm afraid

Must be the automatic gearbox dragging the economy down. My other half has a manual petrol Cooper and in mixed driving it delivers 50mpg with ease. We've seen as high as 70mpg on one steady cruise. The engine is an absolute peach.

Apparently the 6 speed auto will be replaced in a year or two by a more efficient 8 speed unit.